Uruguay knock off Spain

Brazil got past a fighting Italy 6-4 in what was a repeat of last year’s final in Marseille, while Portugal looked more clinical in their 2-1 win against Asian champions Japan.

In the lower half of the draw, Switzerland fought their way past Russia 4-2 to set up a clash against Uruguay following their 3-2 win against Spain in the fourth and final quarterfinal.

Uruguay became the fourth and final team to qualify late last night with a gritty display that saw them get past the nippy Spaniards. After a barren first period that saw the Spaniards enjoy a better dominance, it was Uruguay that stunned the capacity crowd with the experienced Martin jabbing one in past Roberto to give the South Americans the lead.

Three minutes into the final period, Ricar scored from the penalty spot to double the lead for Uruguay, only to see skipper Ramiro Amarelle score from the halfway line to make it 2-1. Cristian Torres drew the two teams level to push the match into extra-time.

Then came Ricar with the easiest of taps into an empty goal to seal Spain’s fate and set a semifinal date against Switzerland tonight.

Entrance for spectators for today’s semifinals is absolutely free.

Fixtures (Semifinals): (7.30 pm) Portugal vs Brazil; (9 pm) Switzerland vs Uruguay.